Bergen

Bergen is a small city located in Norway known for its beautiful fjords, colorful wooden houses, and rainy days. It is often referred to as the “Gateway to the fjords” because visitors can easily access some of Norway’s most famous fjords such as the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord from Bergen.

The city’s name, Bergen, means “mountain” in old Norse, but don’t be fooled. Bergen is the flattest city in Norway. The locals, however, like to brag that they have seven mountains, which are more like hills if you ask anyone from anywhere else in the world.

Bergen is also famous for its seafood, particularly the local specialty, “Bergen fish soup.” It is a tasty combination of various fish and shellfish cooked in a rich broth with vegetables and cream. The soup is so good that it’s said to have turned non-seafood lovers into enthusiasts.

The city’s most famous landmark is the Bryggen Wharf, a row of old wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic League. The colorful buildings were once used as trading posts and storehouses for the trade of dried cod from northern Norway. Now, these buildings are home to shops, restaurants, and cafes, and you can stroll around and appreciate the architecture.

But one thing that sets Bergen apart from other cities is its weather. Bergen is known for its rainy days, and by rainy, we mean pouring rain. It’s so rainy that umbrellas are useless, and you need to invest in a good waterproof jacket with a hood. However, Bergenites love their rainy weather and take pride in their ability to live happily in it. They even have a name for the continuous rain: “Bergen drizzle.”

Despite its small size and rainy weather, Bergen has produced some of Norway’s most influential people, including the composer Edvard Grieg and the author Johan Peter Lunde. The city also hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1986, which was the last time Norway won the competition.

All in all, Bergen is a charming and unique city that is worth a visit, even if you don’t have an umbrella.